Become a Notary: Kentucky State Information

Becoming a notary can be an important and exciting option for many people. Notaries perform many important civic duties and are representatives of their states and counties who ensure the validity of important documents and transactions. Many people find that becoming a notary is a fulfilling and worthwhile career or part time job. Each and every state has different laws for becoming a notary. Learn about your state's specific process to become a notary including notary eligibility and step by step instructions.

Become a Notary in Kentucky

In the state of Kentucky you will be commissioned and approved to be a public notary for the entire state which means you can operate in all cities and counties. The process will be conducted and reviewed by the office of the Secretary of State. Like in all states, you will have to meet certain requirements to become a notary public in accordance with the law, as well as submit an application and pay applicable fees.

Kentucky Notary Requirements

In order to become a notary in the state of Kentucky, you must meet the following requirements:

At least 18 years of age

Be a resident in the state of Kentucky and the county in which they will submit an application

Be of strong moral character

Kentucky Notary Term Length

A notary in the state of Kentucky is appointed for a period of four years. If you wish to continue to be a notary in the state of Kentucky after four years, you must renew your notary appointment.

Kentucky Notary Education Requirements

In the state of Kentucky, you are not required by law to take a notary education course, although this is highly recommended to ensure you are operating within the law and completely understand the criteria and liability of your role. You are financially liable for all the documents that you authorize which means it is incredibly important that you fully understand the ins and outs of your role, as well as all the legal requirements.

Kentucky Notary Exam

In the state of Kentucky you are not required by law to pass a notary exam to become an official state notary. However it is recommended that you take a practice notary exam to ensure you fully understand your role and are ready to perform the official duties of a public notary.

Kentucky Notary Bond Requirements

In the state of Kentucky you are required by law to submit a $1,000 bond which ensures that you are conducting your notary business in full accordance with the law.

Step 3:

If your application is approved, you will receive a letter with your official Kentucky Notary Appointment.

Step 4:

Purchase the necessary notary equipment for conducting business as a Kentucky notary public. All of these must be filed with the state per the directions in the Notary Commission packet. This includes:

1. A notary bond of $1,000
2. An official notary public seal embossing seal or rubber stamp seal
3. A notary public journal

Step 5:

Visit the County Clerk's office to complete your commission as a Kentucky notary. You will need to show proof that you have all the necessary equipment and bond and be sworn into office.

Step 6:

Start your career as a Kentucky notary public. You may consider the following books to help create a flourishing business in your community. They offer great advice for marketing your business and finding ongoing clients in your community.

Step 7:

Consider purchasing Errors and Omissions Insurance. Most notaries consider this as an essential to running a successful notary business. Errors and Omissions Insurance protects you, up to the limit of your insurance, from any mistakes you may make as a notary that result in legal actions. This is different than a bond because a bond protects the public; whereas Errors and Omissions Insurance protects you.